The Fourth of July inspires many celebrations, from pool parties and barbecues to fireworks displays. If you host these events at your home, does your homeowner’s insurance cover any injuries that may occur? Let’s take a timely look at your risk during this summer holiday.
Top Homeowner’s Insurance Risks over 4th of July
Here are some of the top risks we see annually and how homeowner’s insurance protects you. Remember that every policy is different, and every homeowner should review it and be aware of their individual coverage.
- Fireworks: Are you protected from damage caused by fireworks? The short answer is yes. Homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage when a house or property is damaged due to a rogue firework. The caveat is that the fireworks must be legal in your state. The state of Florida considers fireworks to be legal only three days per year – New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and the Fourth of July. Therefore if a homeowner sets off fireworks on July 4th and damage occurs, they are most likely covered. Individuals are also covered if the fireworks they use damage a neighbor’s home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause approximately 19,500 fires and 1,900 structure fires annually. If your Florida home burns down from fireworks on the 4th of July, your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover any property damage or destruction. Automobiles damaged are not covered under your homeowner’s policy but will be covered under your auto policy.
- Swimming Pools: Drowning is one of the leading causes of death among small children in Florida. Swimming pools are known as “attractive nuisances,” meaning they are likely to attract children and other vulnerable individuals. Some insurance companies will not even offer a policy to a home with a pool, and others require special riders and conditions. For instance, homeowners will be required to install a child safety fence to keep unwanted visitors from being able to access their pool. If you installed a swimming pool after your home and policy are established, it is not covered unless you call your provider and add it to your policy. If you do not have proper coverage and someone is injured or dies, you will likely be held solely responsible in the courts. Therefore, it is essential to have your pool listed in your homeowner’s policy.
One Additional 4th of July Insurance Risk
Although not associated with homeowners insurance, one of the most significant risks annually for 4th of July revelers is drunk driving. In fact, fatalities spike in this area each year, as people tend to go to all-day parties and drink too much. Dehydration and hours of the strong sun only intensify the effects of alcohol. It goes without saying that no one should get behind the wheel after any amount of drinking, and party-goers should select designated drivers. Drivers also have to be aware that many more impaired people are on the road with them. Any laws associated with drunk driving apply on the holiday as with any other day.
If you are going to be at a party, the risk of causing injury or death is not worth the risk. If you want a drink, drink lots of water and eat throughout the day. Stop drinking long before getting in the car – approximately two hours for each drink that you had.
Anderson and Associates Insurance Group has helped hundreds of Manatee County residents obtain home, life, business, and auto insurance. We are here to help you sort through the thousands of options and choose the policies that best reflect your lifestyle and needs.
